Question: Does ageism affect the rate of DNRs in the elderly?
Hypothesis: I believe that ageism has caused an increase in people refusing to be DNR.
- Do I already know the answer? No
2. Is my question researchable- Yes. I will interview residents that agree to be interviewed to find out what the deciding factor is to become a DNR or not.
3. Is my question clear? Yes, when someone is admitted to a nursing home, they must have it clearly stated whether they are a DNR or not. This determines the course of action for their care. What was the reason behind choosing either option?
4. Does my question have a connection to social scientific scholarship? -Yes. The elderly population is projected to increase by 18 million in the next 10 years. This impacts every person who is currently living as there is the potential to make it to old age. This could help improve healthcare for elderly peoples in all stages of care.
5. Does my question balance the general and specific- Yes, the general elderly population would care about these findings, and specifically Springfield Rivers in Springfield, where I did my observational study.
6. Do I care about the answer? – Yes. If there is a correlation to ageism or lower quality care based on DNR statis then we can address this immediately. We can make changes to how care is delivered. We can implement policies that would hold practitioners accountable for their actions. If there is no correlation, then we can assure our elderly members that regardless of statis they will be treated equally.
